The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has recently showcased the Wing Loong X, a notable addition to their lineup of Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), at the Zhuhai Air Show 2024. This drone, particularly highlighted for its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, represents a significant step forward in unmanned military technology.
Key Features of the Wing Loong X:
General Characteristics:
- Type: Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
- Country of Origin: China
- Manufacturer: Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)
Dimensions:
- Length: Approximately 11 meters
- Wingspan: Around 20.5 meters
- Height: Not publicly specified for Wing Loong X, but similar models suggest around 4.1 meters
Performance:
- Maximum Speed: Up to 370 km/h (230 mph)
- Cruise Speed: Not publicly specified, but generally in line with MALE drones at around 150-200 mph
- Endurance: Over 32 hours (could be extended in the X model)
- Service Ceiling: Greater than 9,900 meters (32,500 feet)
- Range: Operational radius of over 2,000 km, with capabilities for intercontinental missions when equipped with satellite communication.
Propulsion:
- Engine: Turboprop (specific make and model not publicly disclosed)
- Propeller: 5-bladed, rear-mounted pusher configuration
Payload:
- Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW): Estimated around 6,200 kg based on larger models like the Wing Loong-3
- Payload Capacity:
- Weapons: Can carry up to 480 kg internally and externally:
- Missiles: PL-108, PL-12AE for air-to-air combat; YJ-9E anti-ship missile
- Bombs: LS-6 guided bombs (250 kg and 500 kg variants)
- Loitering Munition: ET-60 Tornado
- Torpedoes: For ASW operations
- Surveillance and Communication Equipment:
- EO/IR Turret: For day/night vision capabilities
- Radar: Maritime 360-degree radar for ASW
- Sonobuoy Dispensers: 24 G-type and 20 A-type for submarine detection
Avionics:
- Navigation: GPS with satellite communication for extended range operations
- Control: Autonomous takeoff and landing, with capabilities for satellite link control for long-range missions
Operational Features:
- Launch: Conventional runway take-off, potential for catapult or rocket-assisted take-off
- Landing: Autonomous landing with parachute recovery system as a backup
- Surveillance: Equipped with advanced sensors for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
- Combat: Multi-role with the ability to engage both aerial and ground targets, as well as maritime threats
Strategic Implications:
- Versatility: The Wing Loong X’s design allows for diverse mission profiles, from reconnaissance to direct combat and ASW.
- Export Potential: Given its advanced features, there’s a high likelihood of interest from international buyers, especially in regions requiring maritime security or facing territorial disputes.
- Design and Construction:
- The Wing Loong X is an enlarged version of the Wing Loong family, with a design optimized for extended range and payload capacity. It features a slender fuselage, V-tail, and ventral fins, all constructed with advanced materials for enhanced performance.
- Propulsion:
- Powered by a turbocharged engine, the drone can achieve speeds up to 370 km/h, with a maximum flight time of over 20 hours, showcasing its endurance capabilities.
- Armament and Payload:
- Sonobuoy Dispensers: For ASW missions, the drone can deploy sonobuoys to detect submarines.
- CM-400AKG Anti-Ship Missile: A supersonic missile capable of engaging naval targets, indicating the drone’s role in maritime combat scenarios.
- PL-108 AAM Lite & PL-12AE: Air-to-air missiles for self-defense and engagement with aerial threats.
- ET-60 Tornado: A loitering munition, adding versatility in targeting both moving and stationary ground targets.
- Operational Capabilities:
- The drone is designed with the capacity for autonomous take-off and landing, which minimizes the need for extensive ground support. Its long range of up to 4,000 km makes it suitable for extensive reconnaissance and combat operations over vast areas.
- Surveillance and Reconnaissance:
- Equipped with sophisticated sensors including synthetic aperture radar and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems, the Wing Loong X provides real-time data for surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition.
Strategic Implications:
- Market Positioning: AVIC’s emphasis on the Wing Loong X as having a “5-year leading edge” over competitors underscores China’s intent to lead in drone technology, particularly in the military sector.
- Military Applications: The integration of various weapon systems suggests its multi-role capabilities, from ASW to air-to-air combat, making it a versatile asset for modern warfare.
- Export Potential: Given the history of Wing Loong drones being exported, the X model could see interest from international markets, especially in regions focusing on maritime security.
The introduction of the AVIC Wing Loong X at the Zhuhai Air Show marks a pivotal moment in UAV technology, emphasizing China’s advancements in autonomous military systems. With its comprehensive ASW features and robust design, the Wing Loong X not only enhances China’s military capabilities but also offers potential solutions for allies interested in bolstering their defense strategies with advanced drone technology.
